At least 20 migrants have gone missing off the coast of Tunisia, as they tried to cross the treacherous Mediterranean to Italy, the judicial officials informed on Saturday.

At least 20 migrants have gone missing off the coast of Tunisia, as they tried to cross the treacherous Mediterranean to Italy, the judicial officials informed on Saturday. The authorities said their boat sank while trying to Although the coast guard managed to rescue 17 others from the same boat off the southern city of Sfax, the others were still untraceable. Of the 17 saved, two are in critical condition, said Sfax court judge Faouzi Masmousdi. Recent months have seen a great influx of migrants using Tunisia as the main departure point to enter Europe. earlier most migrants attempting to leave the conflict-ridden zones of Africa and the Middle East used to take the Libya route to enter the continent. Notably, Tunisia's coast lies just 150 kilometres (90 miles) from the Italian island of Lampedusa which makes it a lucrative option for the migrants to take the additional risk. ALSO READ | Tunisia boat tragedy: 14 people from sub-Saharan Africa nations drown, 54 rescued Over 14,000 migrants have been either intercepted or rescued in the first three months of the year trying to enter Europe. The number is five times the figures recorded during the same period last year. “Coast guard patrols prevent 501 clandestine attempts to cross the maritime border and rescued 14,406 [refugees] including 13,138 from sub-Saharan African countries,” informed the government. ALSO WATCH | Italy Boat Tragedy: 63 bodies found, 36 still missing × Notably, this is not the first instance when an illegal boat crossing has gone awry for the migrants. Earlier this year, the Tunisian authorities discovered a sunken boat with 14 dead bodies while rescuing 54. "Coast guard patrols intercepted a group whose boat had sunk, rescuing 54 people of various sub-Saharan African nationalities, and recovering 14 bodies," read a statement released at the time. However, seeing the large influx of migrants, Tunisia President Kais Saied in February ordered officials to take "urgent measures" to tackle irregular migration, claiming that "a criminal plot" was underway to change Tunisia's demography. ALSO READ | Tunisia’s interior minister, a close aide of President Saied, resigns Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Nabil Ammar pleaded the international community that his country needed funding and equipment to better protect its borders. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

At least 20 migrants missing after boat drowns off Tunisian coast, 17 rescued

Tunisia, Africa's northernmost country, has imposed harsh water-use limits due to severe drought. The government has implemented a water rationing system and has prohibited the use of potable water for agricultural purposes. Hem Soraya brings you the report.

What is the future of Tunisia? | WION Climate Tracker

Tunisia state water distribution company SONEDE said in a statement on Friday that it will cut water supply to citizens for seven hours a night. This decision is being taken in response to the country's worst drought on record. Earlier, Tunisia's agricultural ministry introduced a quota system for potable water banning its use in agriculture till September 30. The drought in Tunisia is now in its fourth year.

SONEDE said in a statement that the water will be cut off daily from 9 p.m until 4 a.m, with immediate effect.

Mosbah Hlali, its head, said the drought in the country was unprecedented due to the scarcity of rain for four consecutive years, and called on Tunisians to understand the decision which it attributed to climate change.

Senior agriculture ministry official Hamadi Habib said that Tunisia had recorded a drop in its dam capacity to around 1 billion cubic metres or 30 per cent of the maximum.

The agriculture ministry has also banned the use of potable water to wash cars, water green areas and clean streets and public places. Violators face a fine and imprisonment for a period of between six days to six months.

Residents said Tunisian authorities have been cutting off drinking water at night in some areas of the capital and other cities for the last two weeks in a bid to cut consumption, a move that has sparked widespread anger.

The new decision threatens to fuel social tension in a country whose people suffer from poor public services, high inflation and a weak economy.

The Sidi Salem Dam in the north of the country, a key provider of drinking water to several regions, has declined to only 16% of its maximum capacity of 580 million cubic metres, official figures showed.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Tunisia state water distribution company SONEDE said in a statement on Friday that it will cut water supply to citizens for seven hours a night. This decision is being taken in response to the country's worst drought on record.

Tunisia state water distribution company SONEDE said in a statement on Friday that it will cut water supply to citizens for seven hours a night. This decision is being taken in response to the country's worst drought on record. Earlier, Tunisia's agricultural ministry introduced a quota system for potable water banning its use in agriculture till September 30. The drought in Tunisia is now in its fourth year. SONEDE said in a statement that the water will be cut off daily from 9 p.m until 4 a.m, with immediate effect. Mosbah Hlali, its head, said the drought in the country was unprecedented due to the scarcity of rain for four consecutive years, and called on Tunisians to understand the decision which it attributed to climate change. Senior agriculture ministry official Hamadi Habib said that Tunisia had recorded a drop in its dam capacity to around 1 billion cubic metres or 30 per cent of the maximum. The agriculture ministry has also banned the use of potable water to wash cars, water green areas and clean streets and public places. Violators face a fine and imprisonment for a period of between six days to six months. Residents said Tunisian authorities have been cutting off drinking water at night in some areas of the capital and other cities for the last two weeks in a bid to cut consumption, a move that has sparked widespread anger. The new decision threatens to fuel social tension in a country whose people suffer from poor public services, high inflation and a weak economy. The Sidi Salem Dam in the north of the country, a key provider of drinking water to several regions, has declined to only 16% of its maximum capacity of 580 million cubic metres, official figures showed. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Tunisia: Public water supply to be cut overnight due to drought, fine and jail for wastage

Africa, Tunisia, Senegal, South Africa, Nigeria and Kenya are seeing widespread protests over mismanaging governments. Is this wave of discontent similar to the 2010 #ArabSpring? Watch #WIONWideangle

WION Wideangle | Africa protests: Another Arab spring?

Tunisia's Interior Minister Taoufik Charfeddine, who is President Kais Saied's close aide, on Friday announced that he has submitted his resignation so that he can spend more time with his three children after his wife's death last year.

Charfeddine, aged 54, was holding this position since October 2021. Speaking to the reporters, he said that he wants to thank the president for "his understanding and for allowing me to be relieved of my duties".

Charfeddine's wife died in a fire which broke out due to a gas leak in their home in June 2022. Charfeddine was a key figure in the election campaign which led Saied, who was previously little known, to the presidency in 2019.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tunisian-parliament-convenes-for-the-first-time-since-2021-suspension-heres-what-happened-571712">Tunisian parliament convenes for the first time since 2021 suspension. Here's what happened</a>

In a dramatic move in July 2021, Saied sacked the then government and froze the parliament, after which Charfeddine became his close adviser.

As President Saied worked through sweeping changes in the political system of the country, Charfeddine emerged as one of his most outspoken defenders.

Video footage of the frequent meetings of the two men in the presidential palace was regularly released by Saied's office. During the multiple arrests that took place during Saied's regime, Charfeddine continued holding a press conferences and defending the opposition politicians' incarceration.

When Islamist-inspired Ennahdha party's vice president went on hunger strike to raise his voice against his detention, Charfeddine said that fears of terrorism had forced the security forces to respond.

"There were fears of acts of terrorism targeting the country's security and we had to act," said the minister, while speaking about former justice minister Noureddine Bhiri's arrest.

WATCH | Tunisia: Massive protests against President, labour body holds show of strength

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Charfeddine stood by Saied's side last month as the country battled an international outcry over a tirade by the president against sub-Saharan Africa's illegal migrants.

"There is no question of allowing anyone in an illegal situation to stay in Tunisia," said the president during one of his recorded meetings with the minister.

"I will not allow the institutions of the state to be undermined or the demographic composition of Tunisia to be changed,” he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Tunisia's Interior Minister Taoufik Charfeddine, who is President Kais Saied's close aide, on Friday announced that he has submitted his resignation so that he can spend more time with his three children after his wife's death last year.

Tunisia's Interior Minister Taoufik Charfeddine, who is President Kais Saied's close aide, on Friday announced that he has submitted his resignation so that he can spend more time with his three children after his wife's death last year. Charfeddine, aged 54, was holding this position since October 2021. Speaking to the reporters, he said that he wants to thank the president for "his understanding and for allowing me to be relieved of my duties". Charfeddine's wife died in a fire which broke out due to a gas leak in their home in June 2022. Charfeddine was a key figure in the election campaign which led Saied, who was previously little known, to the presidency in 2019. ALSO READ | Tunisian parliament convenes for the first time since 2021 suspension. Here's what happened In a dramatic move in July 2021, Saied sacked the then government and froze the parliament, after which Charfeddine became his close adviser. As President Saied worked through sweeping changes in the political system of the country, Charfeddine emerged as one of his most outspoken defenders. Video footage of the frequent meetings of the two men in the presidential palace was regularly released by Saied's office. During the multiple arrests that took place during Saied's regime, Charfeddine continued holding a press conferences and defending the opposition politicians' incarceration. When Islamist-inspired Ennahdha party's vice president went on hunger strike to raise his voice against his detention, Charfeddine said that fears of terrorism had forced the security forces to respond. "There were fears of acts of terrorism targeting the country's security and we had to act," said the minister, while speaking about former justice minister Noureddine Bhiri's arrest. WATCH | Tunisia: Massive protests against President, labour body holds show of strength Charfeddine stood by Saied's side last month as the country battled an international outcry over a tirade by the president against sub-Saharan Africa's illegal migrants. "There is no question of allowing anyone in an illegal situation to stay in Tunisia," said the president during one of his recorded meetings with the minister. "I will not allow the institutions of the state to be undermined or the demographic composition of Tunisia to be changed,” he added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Tunisia’s interior minister, a close aide of President Saied, resigns

The Tunisian parliament held its first session with the recently elected members, on Monday (March 13), nearly 20 months after it was suspended in July 2021. The members who were chosen in an election which took place in December and January with a voter turnout of 11 per cent, began the session which was closed to all but the state media. Reportedly, independent or foreign journalists were barred from entering the parliament building.&nbsp;

The north African country has recently witnessed widespread protests organised by different groups including the opposition coalition, its powerful labour union UGTT, journalists, and so on. In 2021, incumbent President Kais Saied shut down the previously elected parliament, a move which has been described as a power grab and a coup by many in the country.&nbsp;

What happened during the session?

Being the oldest in the new parliament, MP Saleh Mbarki from the Kabaria constituency chaired the opening session and said, “Our duties as people's representatives are to work in partnership with the executive authority for the unity of the state,” reported Reuters.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tunisian-president-calls-for-expulsion-of-migrants-as-wave-of-crackdowns-on-dissents-continues-565946">Tunisian president calls for expulsion of migrants as crackdown on his critics continues</a>

Meanwhile, the main opposition coalition, The National Salvation Front, in a statement said they will not recognise this parliament and said that it came about via a “putschist constitution and elections shunned by the overwhelming majority of voters.”&nbsp;

The low voter turnout has been attributed to most parties boycotting the election which left candidates without party affiliation contesting in the elections. Therefore, most of the new parliament members are political independents who will not be an effective check on executive power, Tunisian activists have warned, reported the Guardian.&nbsp;

Out of the 161 seats of the Tunisian parliament, only 154 are occupied due to the lack of candidates for representatives of Tunisians living abroad. During the first session of the new parliament, on Monday, lawmakers elected their speaker, Ibrahim Bouderbala, the former president of the Bar Association and supposedly a staunch supporter of Saied, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tunisia-elections-tunisians-turn-their-back-on-election-and-presidents-agenda-557123">Tunisia Elections: Tunisians turn their back on election and President's agenda</a>

Notably, the new parliament will not have the same power that the previous one did as Saied sacked the government, froze parliament, and seized almost total power of the country in 2021 after which he also wrote a new constitution last year.&nbsp;

According to this new constitution, the parliament cannot impeach the president or even hold the government accountable for their actions, as per media reports. Additionally, bills proposed by the president, in this Saied, will be prioritised as opposed to those put forward by other lawmakers.&nbsp;

Journalists barred from attending the first session

For the first time since the 2011 revolution when ousted late dictator Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali was in power Tunisia witnessed a ban on journalists. As only journalists from state-controlled media like the state TV, radio, and news agency were allowed to cover the proceedings of the first session of the new parliament on Monday. Meanwhile, journalists from foreign and private outlets were barred from the parliament building.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tunisia-thousands-protests-against-pres-policies-govt-expels-european-trade-union-chief-for-participating-563644">Tunisia: Govt expels ETUC chief for participating in protests against president’s policies</a> 
 
“Lawmakers it is a shame. The press is under siege”, journalists outside the building chanted as per Reuters. The move was also defended by Fatma Mseddi, a newly elected MP who said that the decision was taken to avoid “disorder” and convey an “inappropriate image”. The national union of journalists in Tunisia also issued a statement which draws parallels between the current situation and the pre-revolution time.&nbsp;

Amira Mohamed, vice president of the SNJT, told Reuters how the move is a “scandal and a serious violation of press freedom”. She added, “It harms the image of Tunisia and attacks the citizen's right to a free and pluralistic media.” Previously, speaking to the independent radio station Mosaique FM in Tunisia she had also said that media was being censored and that the union would “opt for escalation” if this ban continues.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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The Tunisian parliament held its first session with the recently elected members, on Monday (March 13), nearly 20 months after it was suspended in July 2021. The members who were chosen in an election which took place in December and January with a voter turnout of 11 per cent, began the session which was closed to all but the state media.

The Tunisian parliament held its first session with the recently elected members, on Monday (March 13), nearly 20 months after it was suspended in July 2021. The members who were chosen in an election which took place in December and January with a voter turnout of 11 per cent, began the session which was closed to all but the state media. Reportedly, independent or foreign journalists were barred from entering the parliament building. The north African country has recently witnessed widespread protests organised by different groups including the opposition coalition, its powerful labour union UGTT, journalists, and so on. In 2021, incumbent President Kais Saied shut down the previously elected parliament, a move which has been described as a power grab and a coup by many in the country. What happened during the session? Being the oldest in the new parliament, MP Saleh Mbarki from the Kabaria constituency chaired the opening session and said, “Our duties as people's representatives are to work in partnership with the executive authority for the unity of the state,” reported Reuters. ALSO READ | Tunisian president calls for expulsion of migrants as crackdown on his critics continues Meanwhile, the main opposition coalition, The National Salvation Front, in a statement said they will not recognise this parliament and said that it came about via a “putschist constitution and elections shunned by the overwhelming majority of voters.” The low voter turnout has been attributed to most parties boycotting the election which left candidates without party affiliation contesting in the elections. Therefore, most of the new parliament members are political independents who will not be an effective check on executive power, Tunisian activists have warned, reported the Guardian. Out of the 161 seats of the Tunisian parliament, only 154 are occupied due to the lack of candidates for representatives of Tunisians living abroad. During the first session of the new parliament, on Monday, lawmakers elected their speaker, Ibrahim Bouderbala, the former president of the Bar Association and supposedly a staunch supporter of Saied, reported Reuters. ALSO WATCH | Tunisia Elections: Tunisians turn their back on election and President's agenda Notably, the new parliament will not have the same power that the previous one did as Saied sacked the government, froze parliament, and seized almost total power of the country in 2021 after which he also wrote a new constitution last year. According to this new constitution, the parliament cannot impeach the president or even hold the government accountable for their actions, as per media reports. Additionally, bills proposed by the president, in this Saied, will be prioritised as opposed to those put forward by other lawmakers. Journalists barred from attending the first session For the first time since the 2011 revolution when ousted late dictator Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali was in power Tunisia witnessed a ban on journalists. As only journalists from state-controlled media like the state TV, radio, and news agency were allowed to cover the proceedings of the first session of the new parliament on Monday. Meanwhile, journalists from foreign and private outlets were barred from the parliament building. ALSO READ | Tunisia: Govt expels ETUC chief for participating in protests against president’s policies “Lawmakers it is a shame. The press is under siege”, journalists outside the building chanted as per Reuters. The move was also defended by Fatma Mseddi, a newly elected MP who said that the decision was taken to avoid “disorder” and convey an “inappropriate image”. The national union of journalists in Tunisia also issued a statement which draws parallels between the current situation and the pre-revolution time. Amira Mohamed, vice president of the SNJT, told Reuters how the move is a “scandal and a serious violation of press freedom”. She added, “It harms the image of Tunisia and attacks the citizen's right to a free and pluralistic media.” Previously, speaking to the independent radio station Mosaique FM in Tunisia she had also said that media was being censored and that the union would “opt for escalation” if this ban continues. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tunisian parliament convenes for the first time since 2021 suspension. Here's what happened

Fourteen migrants from sub-Saharan Africa have drowned off the coast of Tunisia, the coastguard said on Thursday. The Tunisian authorities said that they discovered a sunken boat from which they rescued 54 people of various sub-Saharan African nationalities. The authorities recovered 14 dead bodies from the spot.&nbsp;

"Coast guard patrols last night intercepted a group whose boat had sunk, rescuing 54 people of various sub-Saharan African nationalities, and recovering 14 bodies," the authority said in a statement.

Last month, Tunisia President Kais Saied ordered officials to take "urgent measures" to tackle irregular migration, claiming that "a criminal plot" was underway to change Tunisia's demography. He claimed that migrants were behind most crime in the North African country.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/smugglers-threw-kids-into-sea-to-lighten-boat-italy-boat-tragedy-gets-murkier-566963">Italy boat tragedy gets murkier: Smugglers 'threw kids into sea' to lighten vessel's load</a>

Earlier on Thursday, the European Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson called Tunisian president's statements on African migrants "worrying" but added the EU will continue to cooperate with this "key country" to prevent illegal immigration to Europe.

Tunisia, whose coast lies just 150 kilometres (90 miles) from the Italian island of Lampedusa, has long been a transit&nbsp;for people fleeing war and poverty elsewhere in Africa, often on&nbsp;boats.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Italy Boat Tragedy: 63 bodies found, 36 still missing

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Tunisia reportedly hosts around 21,000 undocumented migrants from other parts of Africa, less than 0.2 per cent of the population.

Rome said in February that more than 32,000 migrants, including 18,000 Tunisians, reached Italy from Tunisia last year, while thousands more have departed from neighbouring Libya.

Meanwhile, the&nbsp; president on Wednesday denied he was racist, saying he had African friends and slammed&nbsp;the "malicious remarks" of those who "wanted to interpret the speech as they saw fit to harm Tunisia".

"I am African and I am proud to be African," President&nbsp;Kais Saied said after a meeting with Guinea-Bissau's President Umaro Sissoco Embalo, who is chair of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

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Fourteen migrants from sub-Saharan Africa have drowned off the coast of Tunisia, the coastguard said on Thursday. The Tunisian authorities said that they discovered a sunken boat from which they rescued 54 people of various sub-Saharan African nationalities.

Fourteen migrants from sub-Saharan Africa have drowned off the coast of Tunisia, the coastguard said on Thursday. The Tunisian authorities said that they discovered a sunken boat from which they rescued 54 people of various sub-Saharan African nationalities. The authorities recovered 14 dead bodies from the spot. "Coast guard patrols last night intercepted a group whose boat had sunk, rescuing 54 people of various sub-Saharan African nationalities, and recovering 14 bodies," the authority said in a statement. Last month, Tunisia President Kais Saied ordered officials to take "urgent measures" to tackle irregular migration, claiming that "a criminal plot" was underway to change Tunisia's demography. He claimed that migrants were behind most crime in the North African country. ALSO READ | Italy boat tragedy gets murkier: Smugglers 'threw kids into sea' to lighten vessel's load Earlier on Thursday, the European Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson called Tunisian president's statements on African migrants "worrying" but added the EU will continue to cooperate with this "key country" to prevent illegal immigration to Europe. Tunisia, whose coast lies just 150 kilometres (90 miles) from the Italian island of Lampedusa, has long been a transit for people fleeing war and poverty elsewhere in Africa, often on boats. ALSO WATCH | Italy Boat Tragedy: 63 bodies found, 36 still missing × Tunisia reportedly hosts around 21,000 undocumented migrants from other parts of Africa, less than 0.2 per cent of the population. Rome said in February that more than 32,000 migrants, including 18,000 Tunisians, reached Italy from Tunisia last year, while thousands more have departed from neighbouring Libya. Meanwhile, the president on Wednesday denied he was racist, saying he had African friends and slammed the "malicious remarks" of those who "wanted to interpret the speech as they saw fit to harm Tunisia". "I am African and I am proud to be African," President Kais Saied said after a meeting with Guinea-Bissau's President Umaro Sissoco Embalo, who is chair of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tunisia boat tragedy: 14 people from sub-Saharan Africa nations drown, 54 rescued

Hundreds of supporters of the opposition took to the streets in the Tunisian capital city of Tunis on Sunday (March 5) to protest against President Kais Saied, defying the official ban placed last week. This also comes a day after the country’s powerful labour union Union Générale Tunisienne du Travail (UGTT) also known as the Tunisian General Labour Union held the biggest rally against the country’s leader amid weeks of sporadic protests across Tunisia.&nbsp;

What happened during Sunday’s protest?

Hundreds of supporters of the opposition party broke police barriers during the rally on Sunday in central Tunis after police warned them that their demonstration was illegal and would not want to stop them by force, reported Reuters. Subsequently, thousands of protesters pushed through the barriers to reach Habib Bourguiba Avenue, an area where most rallies take place.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tunisian-president-calls-for-expulsion-of-migrants-as-wave-of-crackdowns-on-dissents-continues-565946">Tunisian president calls for expulsion of migrants as crackdown on his critics continues</a>

The main opposition coalition National Salvation Front (NSF) comprising Tunisia’s biggest party, the Islamist Ennahda, the Stop the Coup protest movement and some other smaller parties have demanded that Saied step down. This comes amid a wave of arrests in recent weeks which include opposition politicians, prominent activists, a businessman, a media figure as well as two judges for supposedly criticising the north African country’s president.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tunisia-thousands-protests-against-pres-policies-govt-expels-european-trade-union-chief-for-participating-563644">Tunisia: Govt expels ETUC chief for participating in protests against president’s policies</a>

So far, at least 20 prominent figures have been arrested in this context. A former member of the Tunisian parliament, Saida Ounissi told Al Jazeera that the recent protests are unique to other anti-government rallies. “This is the second day of protests and we are surprised at the number of average citizens who are protesting and facing the threat of oppression by going out to the streets and calling for freedom”, she said.&nbsp;

Why was the rally banned?&nbsp;

The governor of Tunis, Kamel Feki, on Thursday imposed a ban and rejected NSF’s request to hold a march on Sunday saying that it has “not been approved as some of its leaders are suspected of plotting against state security.” On the same day, the local media reported that two members of the Islamist-leaning Ennahda party, Sadok Chourou and Habib Ellouz, were also arrested.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tunisia-massive-protests-against-president-labour-body-holds-show-of-strength-568790">Tunisia: Massive protests against President, labour body holds show of strength</a>

Labour union’s biggest march against president

The rally on Sunday also came a day after Tunisia’s labour union held what is being called the protest against Saied yet. Thousands gathered at Habib Bourguiba Avenue, on Saturday where UGTT leader Noureddine Taboubi said, “We will continue to defend freedoms and rights, whatever the cost. We do not fear prisons or arrests”, as per Reuters.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Hundreds of supporters of the opposition took to the streets in the Tunisian capital city of Tunis on Sunday (March 5) to protest against President Kais Saied, defying the official ban placed last week.

Hundreds of supporters of the opposition took to the streets in the Tunisian capital city of Tunis on Sunday (March 5) to protest against President Kais Saied, defying the official ban placed last week. This also comes a day after the country’s powerful labour union Union Générale Tunisienne du Travail (UGTT) also known as the Tunisian General Labour Union held the biggest rally against the country’s leader amid weeks of sporadic protests across Tunisia. What happened during Sunday’s protest? Hundreds of supporters of the opposition party broke police barriers during the rally on Sunday in central Tunis after police warned them that their demonstration was illegal and would not want to stop them by force, reported Reuters. Subsequently, thousands of protesters pushed through the barriers to reach Habib Bourguiba Avenue, an area where most rallies take place. ALSO READ | Tunisian president calls for expulsion of migrants as crackdown on his critics continues The main opposition coalition National Salvation Front (NSF) comprising Tunisia’s biggest party, the Islamist Ennahda, the Stop the Coup protest movement and some other smaller parties have demanded that Saied step down. This comes amid a wave of arrests in recent weeks which include opposition politicians, prominent activists, a businessman, a media figure as well as two judges for supposedly criticising the north African country’s president. ALSO READ | Tunisia: Govt expels ETUC chief for participating in protests against president’s policies So far, at least 20 prominent figures have been arrested in this context. A former member of the Tunisian parliament, Saida Ounissi told Al Jazeera that the recent protests are unique to other anti-government rallies. “This is the second day of protests and we are surprised at the number of average citizens who are protesting and facing the threat of oppression by going out to the streets and calling for freedom”, she said. Why was the rally banned? The governor of Tunis, Kamel Feki, on Thursday imposed a ban and rejected NSF’s request to hold a march on Sunday saying that it has “not been approved as some of its leaders are suspected of plotting against state security.” On the same day, the local media reported that two members of the Islamist-leaning Ennahda party, Sadok Chourou and Habib Ellouz, were also arrested. ALSO WATCH | Tunisia: Massive protests against President, labour body holds show of strength Labour union’s biggest march against president The rally on Sunday also came a day after Tunisia’s labour union held what is being called the protest against Saied yet. Thousands gathered at Habib Bourguiba Avenue, on Saturday where UGTT leader Noureddine Taboubi said, “We will continue to defend freedoms and rights, whatever the cost. We do not fear prisons or arrests”, as per Reuters. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tunisian opposition defies protest ban, hundreds demonstrate against president

Massive process gripped Tunisia on Saturday, organised by the country's most powerful union against the President, describing the regime as creeping dictatorship. The union has been at loggerheads, the President for months carrying national flags.

Tunisia: Massive protests against President, labour body holds show of strength

A steady flow of taxis has rolled up outside the Ivorian embassy in Tunis in recent days, depositing dozens of migrants who say they no longer feel safe amid an officially sanctioned climate of fear. After a wave of arrests in recent weeks, President Kais Saied gave a speech that critics said was openly racist. Many Sub-Saharan Africans in Tunisia are now heading for the exit. The authorities now claim that the president was misunderstood. But, what's really causing friction in the North African country when it comes to the issue of migrants? Our next report explores.

World of Africa | Tunisia's anti-racism protest: All you need to know

The wave of arrests in Tunisia has continued for weeks as the authorities have made more than a dozen key arrests which include opposition politicians, prominent activists, a businessman, a media figure as well as two judges for supposedly criticising the north African country’s President Kais Saied. Additionally, the Tunisian authorities also said they arrested nearly 70 migrants over 48 hours for illegally attempting to enter the country, on Thursday (February 23) after Saied called for “urgent measures” against irregular immigrants.&nbsp;

Saied’s stance on migrants receives criticism from African Union

The arrests on Thursday near the Algerian border came two days after the Tunisian president ordered his security forces to stop all illegal migration and expel all undocumented migrants. This prompted additional arrests and fear among the sub-Saharan Africans as well as Black Tunisians, as per Reuters.&nbsp;

In his remarks, Saied said they needed to address the issue of “irregular immigrants from sub-Saharan countries, “with their lot of violence, crimes and unacceptable practices,” reported Associated Press.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tunisia-president-sacks-foreign-minister-amid-political-slugfest-economic-turmoil-559795">Tunisia president sacks foreign minister amid political slugfest, economic turmoil</a>

The Tunisian president also alleged that this uptick in undocumented immigration was a conspiracy for changing the country’s demographic makeup and stopping it from being an Arab and Muslim country. The comments made at the National Security Council meeting sparked outrage on social media from rights groups.

They also drew strong criticism and condemnation from&nbsp;the African Union (AU), which released a statement, late Friday, saying that it was in “deep shock and concern at the form and substance of the statement” by the Tunisian president. Subsequently, it went on to remind the country of its obligation as a part of the 55-nation bloc to treat migrants with dignity and avoid this “racialised hate speech” against them.&nbsp;

The next day, Tunisia’s Foreign Ministry called these accusations “baseless” and that they misunderstood the Saied government’s position. Additionally, Saied also said he was not being racist and that migrants living in Tunisia legally have nothing to fear. This incident also sparked protests in the capital city of Tunis where hundreds of people gathered against controversial remarks by the Tunisian President.&nbsp; 
 
Migrants arrested near&nbsp;Algerian border 
 
The authorities in Tunisia said on Thursday, they arrested&nbsp;69 migrants of various nationalities in the span of 48 hours for illegally entering the country. According to AP, while there is no official data on the number of&nbsp;sub-Saharan migrants,&nbsp;the approximate number could be nearly&nbsp;21,000 who are said to be entering predominantly from&nbsp;Algeria and Libya to eventually get to Europe.&nbsp;

Pre-detention trial for prominent critics of the president

According to the defence team of three prominent politicians and a high-profile businessman, an anti-terrorism investigative judge, on Saturday (February 25) decided to hold them in pre-trial detention, reported Reuters. This comes after they were arrested amid a wave of crackdowns on alleged Saied critics which led to dozens of arrests this month.&nbsp;

ALSO READ&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tunisia-thousands-protests-against-pres-policies-govt-expels-european-trade-union-chief-for-participating-563644">Tunisia: Govt expels ETUC chief for participating in protests against president’s policies</a> 
 
The four men in question will be the first to face a judicial hearing&nbsp;after being charged with conspiring against state security. However, some of the lawyers for the detainees of the four men as well as others said they were boycotting the hearings as the conditions of a fair trial were not met. Meanwhile, the Tunisian police, interior ministry and justice ministry have not commented on these allegations, as per Reuters.

The four men currently facing pre-trial detention are Abdelhamid Jlassi, a former senior official in the Islamist Ennahda party, former Finance Minister Khayam Turki, Republican Party leader Issam Chebbi and businessman Kamel Ltaif.&nbsp;

Notably, these arrests are seen as one of the biggest crackdowns on opponents and dissents since Saied’s power grab in 2021 where he sacked the government, froze parliament, and seized almost total power of the country after writing a new constitution, a move that many have termed a power grab and rivals called a coup.&nbsp;

Tunisian police arrest Ghazi Chaouachi

The Tunisian police, on Friday (February 24) arrested a prominent critic of the north African nation’s leader, Ghazi Chaouachi, said his son Elyess, as per Reuters. According to his son, at least 20 policemen searched their house and arrested Ghazi.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tunisian-police-arrest-prominent-political-activists-and-influential-businessman-561237">Tunisian police arrest prominent political activists and influential businessman</a>

Tunisian opposition announces new round of protests over the recent arrests

A Tunisian protest coalition, on Friday, announced holding a demonstration on March 5 against the ongoing arrests after senior figures of the National Salvation Front, an umbrella organisation which has brought political parties and protest groups together, reported Reuters. On the same day, the Tunisian police arrested one of the movement’s leaders, Jawher Ben Mbarek.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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The wave of arrests in Tunisia has continued for weeks as the authorities have made more than a dozen key arrests which include opposition politicians, prominent activists, a businessman, a media figure as well as two judges for supposedly criticising the north African country’s President Kais Saied.

The wave of arrests in Tunisia has continued for weeks as the authorities have made more than a dozen key arrests which include opposition politicians, prominent activists, a businessman, a media figure as well as two judges for supposedly criticising the north African country’s President Kais Saied. Additionally, the Tunisian authorities also said they arrested nearly 70 migrants over 48 hours for illegally attempting to enter the country, on Thursday (February 23) after Saied called for “urgent measures” against irregular immigrants. Saied’s stance on migrants receives criticism from African Union The arrests on Thursday near the Algerian border came two days after the Tunisian president ordered his security forces to stop all illegal migration and expel all undocumented migrants. This prompted additional arrests and fear among the sub-Saharan Africans as well as Black Tunisians, as per Reuters. In his remarks, Saied said they needed to address the issue of “irregular immigrants from sub-Saharan countries, “with their lot of violence, crimes and unacceptable practices,” reported Associated Press. ALSO READ | Tunisia president sacks foreign minister amid political slugfest, economic turmoil The Tunisian president also alleged that this uptick in undocumented immigration was a conspiracy for changing the country’s demographic makeup and stopping it from being an Arab and Muslim country. The comments made at the National Security Council meeting sparked outrage on social media from rights groups. They also drew strong criticism and condemnation from the African Union (AU), which released a statement, late Friday, saying that it was in “deep shock and concern at the form and substance of the statement” by the Tunisian president. Subsequently, it went on to remind the country of its obligation as a part of the 55-nation bloc to treat migrants with dignity and avoid this “racialised hate speech” against them. The next day, Tunisia’s Foreign Ministry called these accusations “baseless” and that they misunderstood the Saied government’s position. Additionally, Saied also said he was not being racist and that migrants living in Tunisia legally have nothing to fear. This incident also sparked protests in the capital city of Tunis where hundreds of people gathered against controversial remarks by the Tunisian President. Migrants arrested near Algerian border The authorities in Tunisia said on Thursday, they arrested 69 migrants of various nationalities in the span of 48 hours for illegally entering the country. According to AP, while there is no official data on the number of sub-Saharan migrants, the approximate number could be nearly 21,000 who are said to be entering predominantly from Algeria and Libya to eventually get to Europe. Pre-detention trial for prominent critics of the president According to the defence team of three prominent politicians and a high-profile businessman, an anti-terrorism investigative judge, on Saturday (February 25) decided to hold them in pre-trial detention, reported Reuters. This comes after they were arrested amid a wave of crackdowns on alleged Saied critics which led to dozens of arrests this month. ALSO READ | Tunisia: Govt expels ETUC chief for participating in protests against president’s policies The four men in question will be the first to face a judicial hearing after being charged with conspiring against state security. However, some of the lawyers for the detainees of the four men as well as others said they were boycotting the hearings as the conditions of a fair trial were not met. Meanwhile, the Tunisian police, interior ministry and justice ministry have not commented on these allegations, as per Reuters. The four men currently facing pre-trial detention are Abdelhamid Jlassi, a former senior official in the Islamist Ennahda party, former Finance Minister Khayam Turki, Republican Party leader Issam Chebbi and businessman Kamel Ltaif. Notably, these arrests are seen as one of the biggest crackdowns on opponents and dissents since Saied’s power grab in 2021 where he sacked the government, froze parliament, and seized almost total power of the country after writing a new constitution, a move that many have termed a power grab and rivals called a coup. Tunisian police arrest Ghazi Chaouachi The Tunisian police, on Friday (February 24) arrested a prominent critic of the north African nation’s leader, Ghazi Chaouachi, said his son Elyess, as per Reuters. According to his son, at least 20 policemen searched their house and arrested Ghazi. ALSO READ | Tunisian police arrest prominent political activists and influential businessman Tunisian opposition announces new round of protests over the recent arrests A Tunisian protest coalition, on Friday, announced holding a demonstration on March 5 against the ongoing arrests after senior figures of the National Salvation Front, an umbrella organisation which has brought political parties and protest groups together, reported Reuters. On the same day, the Tunisian police arrested one of the movement’s leaders, Jawher Ben Mbarek. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Tunisian president calls for expulsion of migrants as crackdown on his critics continues

Thousands of members of Tunisia’s leading political force,&nbsp;Union Générale Tunisienne du Travail&nbsp;(UGTT) also known as the&nbsp;Tunisian General Labour Union&nbsp;took to the streets across eight cities in the country in protest against&nbsp;President Kais Saied’s policies, on Saturday (February 18). Subsequently, the country’s government expelled the head of the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) for taking part in these demonstrations. This comes as the trade union has accused Saied’s government of stifling freedoms including union rights.

The recent protests also come days after dozens of journalists and rights activists protested in the Tunisian capital Tunis which was organised by the SNJT journalists’ union following the arrest of the director of popular private radio station Mosaique FM, Noureddine Boutar. At the time, protesters had accused the government of “repression” and intimidation of the media.&nbsp;

The demonstrations on Saturday also marked an escalation of growing opposition against Saied’s government and criticised the recent arrests of several anti-government figures which included politicians, a journalist, two judges, and a senior UGTT official.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tunisia-president-sacks-foreign-minister-amid-political-slugfest-economic-turmoil-559795">Tunisia president sacks foreign minister amid political slugfest, economic turmoil</a> 
 
Addressing the expulsion of ETUC’s Esther Lynch, the UGTT senior official Sami Tahri told Reuters, “We condemn this shocking decision...it not only contains a confrontation against UGTT, but rather with the international union movement.”&nbsp;He added that the ETUC official was also harassed and prevented from leaving her hotel for dinner.&nbsp;

Following her participation in the protests,&nbsp;the Tunisian president in a statement, late Saturday,&nbsp;declared Lynch as “persona non grata” and asked the Irish citizen to leave the country within 24 hours. The government reportedly also called her participation in the protests a “blatant interference” in the country’s affairs.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tunisian-general-labour-union-holds-demonstrations-across-country-563606">Tunisian General Labour Union holds demonstrations across country</a>

The recent wave of arrests has also prompted the United Nations Human Rights Office to call for the immediate release of those detained while the move has raised concerns about the Tunisian government conducting a wider crackdown on dissent. The journalists’ union which held a protest on Thursday in this context, raised slogans like “No to repression of journalists” and “We demand an independent free press,” reported AFP.

Similarly,&nbsp;thousands of protesters in the southern city of Sfax carried national flags and raised slogans like “Stop the attack on union freedoms” and “Cowardly Saied, the union is not afraid”, reported Reuters. The other seven cities where demonstrations were held are Jendouba, Tozeur, Monastir, Bizerte, Kasserine, Kairouan and Nabeul.&nbsp;

Furthermore, as per media reports, additional protests are planned in the upcoming days with the concluding rally in the capital city early next month. While addressing the demonstration in Sfax, Lynch had said, she was there on behalf of 45 million European trade unionists who also support the Tunisian trade union while also calling for the immediate release of the detained union officials.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tunisian-police-arrest-prominent-political-activists-and-influential-businessman-561237">Tunisian police arrest prominent political activists and influential businessman</a>

Notably, the aforementioned private radio station has reportedly been critical of Saied who two years ago sacked the government, froze parliament, and seized almost total power of the country after writing a new constitution, a move that many have termed a power grab and rivals called a coup. As of last week, Boutar’s arrest took the total number of public figures detained to 10, most of whom are said to be critical of Saied’s government.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Tunisian president in his first comments after the wave of arrests called those detained “traitors” and accused them of being responsible for fueling a social crisis, price increases, and food shortages. This week he also said that the authorities do not target freedoms, but seek to hold everyone equally accountable, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Thousands of members of Tunisia’s leading political force, Union Générale Tunisienne du Travail (UGTT) also known as the Tunisian General Labour Union took to the streets across eight cities in the country in protest against President Kais Saied’s policies, on Saturday (February 18).

Thousands of members of Tunisia’s leading political force, Union Générale Tunisienne du Travail (UGTT) also known as the Tunisian General Labour Union took to the streets across eight cities in the country in protest against President Kais Saied’s policies, on Saturday (February 18). Subsequently, the country’s government expelled the head of the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) for taking part in these demonstrations. This comes as the trade union has accused Saied’s government of stifling freedoms including union rights. The recent protests also come days after dozens of journalists and rights activists protested in the Tunisian capital Tunis which was organised by the SNJT journalists’ union following the arrest of the director of popular private radio station Mosaique FM, Noureddine Boutar. At the time, protesters had accused the government of “repression” and intimidation of the media. The demonstrations on Saturday also marked an escalation of growing opposition against Saied’s government and criticised the recent arrests of several anti-government figures which included politicians, a journalist, two judges, and a senior UGTT official. ALSO READ | Tunisia president sacks foreign minister amid political slugfest, economic turmoil Addressing the expulsion of ETUC’s Esther Lynch, the UGTT senior official Sami Tahri told Reuters, “We condemn this shocking decision...it not only contains a confrontation against UGTT, but rather with the international union movement.” He added that the ETUC official was also harassed and prevented from leaving her hotel for dinner. Following her participation in the protests, the Tunisian president in a statement, late Saturday, declared Lynch as “persona non grata” and asked the Irish citizen to leave the country within 24 hours. The government reportedly also called her participation in the protests a “blatant interference” in the country’s affairs. ALSO WATCH | Tunisian General Labour Union holds demonstrations across country The recent wave of arrests has also prompted the United Nations Human Rights Office to call for the immediate release of those detained while the move has raised concerns about the Tunisian government conducting a wider crackdown on dissent. The journalists’ union which held a protest on Thursday in this context, raised slogans like “No to repression of journalists” and “We demand an independent free press,” reported AFP. Similarly, thousands of protesters in the southern city of Sfax carried national flags and raised slogans like “Stop the attack on union freedoms” and “Cowardly Saied, the union is not afraid”, reported Reuters. The other seven cities where demonstrations were held are Jendouba, Tozeur, Monastir, Bizerte, Kasserine, Kairouan and Nabeul. Furthermore, as per media reports, additional protests are planned in the upcoming days with the concluding rally in the capital city early next month. While addressing the demonstration in Sfax, Lynch had said, she was there on behalf of 45 million European trade unionists who also support the Tunisian trade union while also calling for the immediate release of the detained union officials. ALSO READ | Tunisian police arrest prominent political activists and influential businessman Notably, the aforementioned private radio station has reportedly been critical of Saied who two years ago sacked the government, froze parliament, and seized almost total power of the country after writing a new constitution, a move that many have termed a power grab and rivals called a coup. As of last week, Boutar’s arrest took the total number of public figures detained to 10, most of whom are said to be critical of Saied’s government. Meanwhile, the Tunisian president in his first comments after the wave of arrests called those detained “traitors” and accused them of being responsible for fueling a social crisis, price increases, and food shortages. This week he also said that the authorities do not target freedoms, but seek to hold everyone equally accountable, reported Reuters. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tunisia: Govt expels ETUC chief for participating in protests against president’s policies

Massive protests were held across the Republic of Tunisia against the President who is accused of stifling Union Rights and worsening economic situation.

Tunisian General Labour Union holds demonstrations across country

In what can be termed as an increasingly authoritative shift, Tunisia President Kais Saied on Tuesday dismissed&nbsp;Othman Jerandi as the foreign minister of the country without citing any reason. This latest firing makes the top diplomat the fourth minister to leave his position since Saied made a spectacular attempt to seize power in July 2021.

Tunisia has since then been plagued by growing political tensions.

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The president announced on its official website that Nabil Ammar, Tunisia's ambassador to the European Union, will take over as foreign minister.&nbsp;The trade, agriculture, and education ministries were previously replaced by Saied this year. However, Jerandi remained the country's foreign minister since September 2020.&nbsp;

Saied forced through a new constitution in a referendum in July 2022 that defanged the parliament and imposed a hyper-presidential administration. He then ousted the government, froze the legislature, and acquired expansive executive powers.

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There have been many teacher and transportation worker strikes in Tunisia recently, and there have also been shortages of basic necessities like milk, reported AFP.&nbsp;

After opposition groups called for a boycott, just 11.4% of Tunisians participated in the second round of voting in January for the now-powerless legislature. Saied is under increasing criticism from the populace, who accuses him of initiating a "coup" in the country that saw the first Arab Spring uprisings in favour of democracy.

The civil resistance in Arab Spring is still vivid in peoples'&nbsp;minds. A young Tunisian man Mohamed Bouazizi who sold veggies off of a barrow on December 17, 2010, lit himself on fire as a form of protest against police abuse. On January 4, 2011, Mohamed Bouazizi passed away, but not before his viral gesture sparked demonstrations against the high cost of living and the nation's autocratic president Zine El Abidine Ben Ali.

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Tunisian Revolution, was a protracted 28-day civil resistance movement. It culminated in a series of protests on the streets of Tunisia, which resulted in Zine El Abidine Ben Ali's overthrow in January 2011. Ultimately, it brought to a complete democratisation of the nation as well as free and democratic elections.

Since that 2011 revolution, which was sparked by persistent economic problems, none of the governments that took office have been able to make significant progress in resolving these issues. The&nbsp;ensuing protracted economic crisis finally led to a crisis in democracy and drastically reduced the confidence and support of the Tunisian people for the nation's young and vulnerable democratic institutions and procedures.

This further comes in the backdrop of Tunisia's protracted discussions with the International Monetary Fund for a bailout worth about $2 billion.

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In what can be termed as an increasingly authoritative shift, Tunisia President Kais Saied on Tuesday dismissed Othman Jerandi as the foreign minister of the country without citing any reason.

In what can be termed as an increasingly authoritative shift, Tunisia President Kais Saied on Tuesday dismissed Othman Jerandi as the foreign minister of the country without citing any reason. This latest firing makes the top diplomat the fourth minister to leave his position since Saied made a spectacular attempt to seize power in July 2021. Tunisia has since then been plagued by growing political tensions. Also Read | Latvia: Fire erupts at US drone factory that built drones for Ukraine military, NATO allies The president announced on its official website that Nabil Ammar, Tunisia's ambassador to the European Union, will take over as foreign minister. The trade, agriculture, and education ministries were previously replaced by Saied this year. However, Jerandi remained the country's foreign minister since September 2020. Saied forced through a new constitution in a referendum in July 2022 that defanged the parliament and imposed a hyper-presidential administration. He then ousted the government, froze the legislature, and acquired expansive executive powers. In Pics | FIRST IMAGES of Chinese balloon debris pulled from Atlantic released by US Navy There have been many teacher and transportation worker strikes in Tunisia recently, and there have also been shortages of basic necessities like milk, reported AFP. After opposition groups called for a boycott, just 11.4% of Tunisians participated in the second round of voting in January for the now-powerless legislature. Saied is under increasing criticism from the populace, who accuses him of initiating a "coup" in the country that saw the first Arab Spring uprisings in favour of democracy. The civil resistance in Arab Spring is still vivid in peoples' minds. A young Tunisian man Mohamed Bouazizi who sold veggies off of a barrow on December 17, 2010, lit himself on fire as a form of protest against police abuse. On January 4, 2011, Mohamed Bouazizi passed away, but not before his viral gesture sparked demonstrations against the high cost of living and the nation's autocratic president Zine El Abidine Ben Ali. Watch | Gravitas | Putin's Girlfriend: Russian media a weapon of war Tunisian Revolution, was a protracted 28-day civil resistance movement. It culminated in a series of protests on the streets of Tunisia, which resulted in Zine El Abidine Ben Ali's overthrow in January 2011. Ultimately, it brought to a complete democratisation of the nation as well as free and democratic elections. Since that 2011 revolution, which was sparked by persistent economic problems, none of the governments that took office have been able to make significant progress in resolving these issues. The ensuing protracted economic crisis finally led to a crisis in democracy and drastically reduced the confidence and support of the Tunisian people for the nation's young and vulnerable democratic institutions and procedures. This further comes in the backdrop of Tunisia's protracted discussions with the International Monetary Fund for a bailout worth about $2 billion. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tunisia president sacks foreign minister amid political slugfest, economic turmoil

Tunisia's parliamentary run-off elections on Sunday had a low turnout of a mere 11 per cent. The turnout though more than December's first-round voter turnout rate of 8.8 per cent, is still significantly low.&nbsp;In a strong rebuke to the president for his 2021 power grab, Ahmed Nejib Chebbi, leader of the nation's main opposition, the National Salvation Front, said, “Almost 90% of Tunisian voters ignored this piece of theatre and refused to be involved in the process."&nbsp;

“I call on political groups and civil society to join hands to work for change, in the form of Kais Saied’s departure and early presidential elections," he added.&nbsp;

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Tunisians appear to be uninterested in voting in the parliamentary elections. One Tunisian Nejib Sahli, 40, while passing a polling station in the Hay Ettahrir district of Tunis early on Sunday said, “I’m not interested in elections that do not concern me," reported France 24.&nbsp;

Saied won the 2019 elections with a landslide however last year, Tunisian President Kais Saied dissolved the country's parliament. At the time, Saied said that the move was taken to purge the country of economic crisis and corruption. Additionally, he blamed government of mishandling the Covid-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

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On 25 July 2021, while invoking an emergency act Article 80 from Tunisia’s constitution Saied removed the Prime Minister and suspended the Parliament the next day. Seizing the power, the president vowed that he will appoint a new leader.&nbsp;

The whole episode which shattered the democratic ambitions of the Arab nation, played out after huge protests gripped the country with citizens blaming the government for Covid mishandling. The country reportedly witnessed a huge death tally during the pandemic.&nbsp;

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Tunisia's opposition party Ennahdha termed the move a coup. He not only removed the cabinet members but also removed many senior officials including many senior judges. Many opposition leaders were put behind bars. Notably, Tunisia has had eight Prime Ministers since 2011.

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Tunisia's parliamentary run-off elections on Sunday had a low turnout of a mere 11 per cent. The turnout though more than December's first-round voter turnout rate of 8.

Tunisia's parliamentary run-off elections on Sunday had a low turnout of a mere 11 per cent. The turnout though more than December's first-round voter turnout rate of 8.8 per cent, is still significantly low. In a strong rebuke to the president for his 2021 power grab, Ahmed Nejib Chebbi, leader of the nation's main opposition, the National Salvation Front, said, “Almost 90% of Tunisian voters ignored this piece of theatre and refused to be involved in the process." “I call on political groups and civil society to join hands to work for change, in the form of Kais Saied’s departure and early presidential elections," he added. Also Read | 'With a missile, it would only take a minute' Boris Johnson reveals he got threats from Putin Tunisians appear to be uninterested in voting in the parliamentary elections. One Tunisian Nejib Sahli, 40, while passing a polling station in the Hay Ettahrir district of Tunis early on Sunday said, “I’m not interested in elections that do not concern me," reported France 24. Saied won the 2019 elections with a landslide however last year, Tunisian President Kais Saied dissolved the country's parliament. At the time, Saied said that the move was taken to purge the country of economic crisis and corruption. Additionally, he blamed government of mishandling the Covid-19 pandemic. Also Read | Pakistan bypolls for 33 vacant National Assembly seats in March, Imran to contest on all On 25 July 2021, while invoking an emergency act Article 80 from Tunisia’s constitution Saied removed the Prime Minister and suspended the Parliament the next day. Seizing the power, the president vowed that he will appoint a new leader. The whole episode which shattered the democratic ambitions of the Arab nation, played out after huge protests gripped the country with citizens blaming the government for Covid mishandling. The country reportedly witnessed a huge death tally during the pandemic. Watch | UK: Nadhim Zahawi sacked as Conservative party chief Tunisia's opposition party Ennahdha termed the move a coup. He not only removed the cabinet members but also removed many senior officials including many senior judges. Many opposition leaders were put behind bars. Notably, Tunisia has had eight Prime Ministers since 2011. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

With apathetic voters, Tunisia parliamentary election records astonishingly low turnout

Polls in Tunisia for the second round of legislative elections closed on Sunday with a very low voter turnout, only 11 percent of the electorate cast their votes with critics citing this as the public's way of showing their disdain for the President.

Tunisia Elections: Tunisians turn their back on election and President's agenda

Thousands of Tunisians marched in the capital to protest against President Kais Saied. The protestors have accused him of seeking to install a new dictatorship amid a worsening economic crisis. Watch further to know more.

Tunisians march against the Saied regime

In order to honour the anniversary of a crucial day in the 2011 revolution that brought democracy, thousands of demonstrators marched through central Tunis against the president of Tunisia, Kais Saied, seizing nearly all of the country's power and demanding that he resign.

Tunisia: Protesters rally against President Kais Saied, people demand for his step down

Tram and bus workers staged a strike in Tunis over no year-end bonus and delayed salaries on Monday, resulting in traffic jams across the capital.

This is the latest strike in a series of similar-kind of protests as the country faces a deepening economic crisis with a continuous shortage of basic commodities like cooking oil and petrol.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The strike emphasises the public companies’ financial issues, which are on the edge of bankruptcy, as the government of President Kais Saied faces one of the worst financial crises.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tunisia-goes-to-polls-as-opposition-calls-for-boycott-over-economic-crisis-543972">Tunisia holds polls, opposition terms the exercise farce, calls for its boycott over economic crisis</a>

"The financial situation in the company is really difficult," the spokesperson of Transtu Hayat Chamtouri said. The strike is a display of the UGTT union’s strength, which has promised to hold more protests.

The two-day strike called by sea, land and air transport workers was approved by the union on January 25 and 26 to protest against "the government's marginalisation of public companies".

Transtu workers, in huge numbers, gathered in Kasbah Square near the office of the prime minister and staged a protest demanding the payment that the company owes to them. The workers raised slogans like "we want our rights ... we don't ask for an advantage".

The strike held on Monday is open-ended and it will continue till the demands of workers are fulfilled, UGTT official Wajih Zidi said adding that a few employees were not been able to pay off their debts. &nbsp;

WATCH|&nbsp;Tunisia: Turnout in parliamentary elections much lower than previous polls

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The travel chaos caused by the strike led to an angry response from a few among the thousands of citizens who were facing problems in travelling around Tunis.

"Today we do not find milk, oil, sugar or coffee. Also now we do not find buses that take us to work. Tunisia has become an unbearable hell," stated a woman who was waiting for long at a bus station. In the Intilaka neighbourhood, roads were blocked by people to protest against the strike.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Tram and bus workers staged a strike in Tunis over no year-end bonus and delayed salaries on Monday, resulting in traffic jams across the capital. This is the latest strike in a series of similar-kind of protests as the country faces a deepening economic crisis with a continuous shortage of basic commodities like cooking oil and petrol.

Tram and bus workers staged a strike in Tunis over no year-end bonus and delayed salaries on Monday, resulting in traffic jams across the capital. This is the latest strike in a series of similar-kind of protests as the country faces a deepening economic crisis with a continuous shortage of basic commodities like cooking oil and petrol. The strike emphasises the public companies’ financial issues, which are on the edge of bankruptcy, as the government of President Kais Saied faces one of the worst financial crises. ALSO READ| Tunisia holds polls, opposition terms the exercise farce, calls for its boycott over economic crisis "The financial situation in the company is really difficult," the spokesperson of Transtu Hayat Chamtouri said. The strike is a display of the UGTT union’s strength, which has promised to hold more protests. The two-day strike called by sea, land and air transport workers was approved by the union on January 25 and 26 to protest against "the government's marginalisation of public companies". Transtu workers, in huge numbers, gathered in Kasbah Square near the office of the prime minister and staged a protest demanding the payment that the company owes to them. The workers raised slogans like "we want our rights ... we don't ask for an advantage". The strike held on Monday is open-ended and it will continue till the demands of workers are fulfilled, UGTT official Wajih Zidi said adding that a few employees were not been able to pay off their debts. WATCH| Tunisia: Turnout in parliamentary elections much lower than previous polls The travel chaos caused by the strike led to an angry response from a few among the thousands of citizens who were facing problems in travelling around Tunis. "Today we do not find milk, oil, sugar or coffee. Also now we do not find buses that take us to work. Tunisia has become an unbearable hell," stated a woman who was waiting for long at a bus station. In the Intilaka neighbourhood, roads were blocked by people to protest against the strike. (With inputs from agencies)

Tram and bus workers stage strike over delayed salaries and no year-end bonus in Tunisia

Tunisians are showing little inclination towards the Parliamentary elections that was held in the country on Saturday. This will tighten President Ke Seed's grip on power.

Tunisia Polls: 8.8% voters cast ballots in election; Opposition parties boycott polls

The leader of Tunisia's major opposition alliance said on Sunday (December 18) that President Kais Saied should "leave immediately." His words came just a day after voters in the country overwhelmingly snubbed elections for a neutered parliament. As per the country's electoral board, only 8.8 per cent of the nine-million-strong electorate had turned out for Saturday's polls. The polls were a culmination of a power grab by Saied in the only democracy to have emerged from the Arab Spring.

An abstention rate of more than 91 per cent "shows that very, very few Tunisians support Kais Saied's approach", Ahmed Nejib Chebbi, president of the National Salvation Front, told AFP by telephone. He said&nbsp;Saturday's election was a 'fiasco'&nbsp;and called for mass protests to demand snap presidential elections.&nbsp;The vote was boycotted by most opposition parties.

He said that the result represented "great popular disavowal" of the process that began when Saied, elected in 2019, seized executive powers last year.

In July 2021, Saied sacked the government, froze parliament and surrounded it with military vehicles. This was followed by months of political deadlock and economic crisis.

Saied, a former law professor, followed up by seizing control of the judiciary and pushing through a constitution that consolidates his near-absolute power in a widely boycotted referendum in July.

Saied's moves, a decade after ouster of dictator Ben Ali, have raised fears of a return to autocracy.

The National Salvation Front, which includes Saied's nemesis the Islamist-inspired Ennahdha party, boycotted Saturday's election, saying it was part of a "coup" against Tunisia's democracy.

The ballot for the new 161-seat assembly followed three weeks of barely noticeable campaigning, with few posters in the streets and no serious debate among a public preoccupied with day-to-day economic survival.

Saied's moves were initially supported by some Tunisians tired of the messy and sometimes corrupt democratic system installed after the revolution.

But almost a year and half on, the country's economic woes have gone from bad to worse and inflation is higher than Saturday's voter turnout.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The leader of Tunisia's major opposition alliance said on Sunday (December 18) that President Kais Saied should "leave immediately." His words came just a day after voters in the country overwhelmingly snubbed elections for a neutered parliament.

The leader of Tunisia's major opposition alliance said on Sunday (December 18) that President Kais Saied should "leave immediately." His words came just a day after voters in the country overwhelmingly snubbed elections for a neutered parliament. As per the country's electoral board, only 8.8 per cent of the nine-million-strong electorate had turned out for Saturday's polls. The polls were a culmination of a power grab by Saied in the only democracy to have emerged from the Arab Spring. An abstention rate of more than 91 per cent "shows that very, very few Tunisians support Kais Saied's approach", Ahmed Nejib Chebbi, president of the National Salvation Front, told AFP by telephone. He said Saturday's election was a 'fiasco' and called for mass protests to demand snap presidential elections. The vote was boycotted by most opposition parties. He said that the result represented "great popular disavowal" of the process that began when Saied, elected in 2019, seized executive powers last year. In July 2021, Saied sacked the government, froze parliament and surrounded it with military vehicles. This was followed by months of political deadlock and economic crisis. Saied, a former law professor, followed up by seizing control of the judiciary and pushing through a constitution that consolidates his near-absolute power in a widely boycotted referendum in July. Saied's moves, a decade after ouster of dictator Ben Ali, have raised fears of a return to autocracy. The National Salvation Front, which includes Saied's nemesis the Islamist-inspired Ennahdha party, boycotted Saturday's election, saying it was part of a "coup" against Tunisia's democracy. The ballot for the new 161-seat assembly followed three weeks of barely noticeable campaigning, with few posters in the streets and no serious debate among a public preoccupied with day-to-day economic survival. Saied's moves were initially supported by some Tunisians tired of the messy and sometimes corrupt democratic system installed after the revolution. But almost a year and half on, the country's economic woes have gone from bad to worse and inflation is higher than Saturday's voter turnout. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Tunisia opposition calls 8.8% voter turnout poll ‘fiasco’, tells President Kais Saied to step down

Tunisia: Turnout in parliamentary elections much lower than previous polls

Amidst the deepening economic crisis, people of Tunisia are all set to vote to form a new Parliament but will prevailing issues affect President Ke Seeds' chances to win?

Tunisia to go for elections for new parliament, economy shrank by 8.5% during pandemic

Tunisia held its general elections on Saturday with the opposition calling for a boycott over the seemingly powerless nature of the mandate. According to local experts, the polls are being considered to be the final move for President Kais Saied to consolidate his power. Tunisia emerged as a democracy from the Arab Spring but since then, widespread corruption has become a norm for the country and the opposition complained that the elections were merely a part of the “coup”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-acted-as-a-subsidiary-shared-master-canine-quality-relationship-with-fbi-543922">Twitter Files 6.0 exposes FBI's deep engagements with tech giant</a>

The allegations came amid Tunisia’s ongoing negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) regarding a possible $2 billion bailout package. A source close to the developments told AFP that the plan was on the verge of getting the green light but it was postponed till January 2023 at the request of the Tunisian government. As a result, a major part of the campaign by the ruling government focused on keeping a stable government in order to ensure the IMF funds.

Apart from the sparse meetings, Reuters reported that Tunisia did not witness much campaigning from the parties, pointing towards a lacklustre view of the elections. Even the population did not show enthusiasm in voting and local media reports claimed that turnout was quite low.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/capitol-riot-us-house-committee-to-press-criminal-charges-against-donald-trump-report-543886">US House committee likely to press criminal charges against Trump: Report</a>

In the past few years, Saied has changed the constitution to allow unlimited powers to the presidency and that has left the parliament with not much say in the matters. While the citizens did back his plans initially, economic crisis and corruption have changed the perspective quite a bit.

According to AFP, the other major change in the Tunisian parliament is the skewed sex ratio when it comes to legislators. While the previous system called for equal representation, the new rules have changed it completely and data suggests that women made up only 15 per cent of the total number of new candidates. 
&nbsp;

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Tunisia held its general elections on Saturday with the opposition calling for a boycott over the seemingly powerless nature of the mandate. According to local experts, the polls are being considered to be the final move for President Kais Saied to consolidate his power.

Tunisia held its general elections on Saturday with the opposition calling for a boycott over the seemingly powerless nature of the mandate. According to local experts, the polls are being considered to be the final move for President Kais Saied to consolidate his power. Tunisia emerged as a democracy from the Arab Spring but since then, widespread corruption has become a norm for the country and the opposition complained that the elections were merely a part of the “coup”. Also read | Twitter Files 6.0 exposes FBI's deep engagements with tech giant The allegations came amid Tunisia’s ongoing negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) regarding a possible $2 billion bailout package. A source close to the developments told AFP that the plan was on the verge of getting the green light but it was postponed till January 2023 at the request of the Tunisian government. As a result, a major part of the campaign by the ruling government focused on keeping a stable government in order to ensure the IMF funds. Apart from the sparse meetings, Reuters reported that Tunisia did not witness much campaigning from the parties, pointing towards a lacklustre view of the elections. Even the population did not show enthusiasm in voting and local media reports claimed that turnout was quite low. Also read | US House committee likely to press criminal charges against Trump: Report In the past few years, Saied has changed the constitution to allow unlimited powers to the presidency and that has left the parliament with not much say in the matters. While the citizens did back his plans initially, economic crisis and corruption have changed the perspective quite a bit. According to AFP, the other major change in the Tunisian parliament is the skewed sex ratio when it comes to legislators. While the previous system called for equal representation, the new rules have changed it completely and data suggests that women made up only 15 per cent of the total number of new candidates.

Tunisia holds polls, opposition terms the exercise farce, calls for its boycott over economic crisis

Hundreds of Tunisians are protesting in the capital city of Tunisia where protesters marched against President Kais Saied. These protests come a week before elections for a new Parliament.

Tunisians protest ahead of polls; Opposition parties hold protest

Tunisians protest against President; protesters denounce 'coup'

Defending champions France will take on Tunisia in both sides' last group-stage encounter in the FIFA World Cup 2022 edition, in Qatar, on Wednesday (November 30). Since winning their first-ever FIFA WC trophy, in 1998, France have never won all three games in the group stage round whereas Tunisia have never even won three games in their WC history so far. Thus, it is a highly uneven contest but this edition of the World Cup has already given football fans some surprising results and, hence, the French line-up will not like to be complacent and aim to march ahead with a big win over Tunisia.&nbsp;

France have already qualified for the Round of 16. Meanwhile, Tunisia needs to beat the defending champions to have any chance of further qualification. Even a draw will ensure France top their group and, hence, have the luxury of resting some of their key players. Asked if their star player Kylian Mbappe&nbsp;insisted on playing or accepts to be given a breather, Didier&nbsp;Deschamps -- the French manager -- said on the eve of the contest, "Physically he’s fine. Kylian doesn’t have a big ego. He’s important to us and makes a difference. But he’s always accepted what the team needs."

France have comprehensively won both their games so far, beating Australia 4-1 and going past Denmark 2-1. Tunisia, on the other hand, held on to a 0-0 stalemate versus Denmark and lost to Australia by 0-1.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/argentina-vs-poland-fifa-world-cup-2022-broadcast-tv-and-ott-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-538739">Argentina vs Poland FIFA World Cup 2022 broadcast TV and OTT-live streaming: When and where to watch?</a>

Here's everything you need to know about the clash:

<h2>When is France vs Tunisia match of the FIFA World Cup 2022?</h2>

France versus Tunisia fixture, from Group D, will be held at the&nbsp;Education City Stadium.

<h2>What time will the match be telecast in India?</h2>

The face-off will get underway at 20:30 AM IST on Wednesday (November 30).

<h2>Where can we watch the match live:&nbsp;Broadcast TV and OTT Channel in India?</h2>

Indian football fans can watch the&nbsp;FIFA World Cup clashes on TV on&nbsp;Sports18&nbsp;and Sports18 HD channels. The live streaming&nbsp;will be on&nbsp;Jio Cinema app&nbsp;or website.

Defending champions France will take on Tunisia in both sides' last group-stage encounter in the FIFA World Cup 2022 edition, in Qatar, on Wednesday (November 30).

Defending champions France will take on Tunisia in both sides' last group-stage encounter in the FIFA World Cup 2022 edition, in Qatar, on Wednesday (November 30). Since winning their first-ever FIFA WC trophy, in 1998, France have never won all three games in the group stage round whereas Tunisia have never even won three games in their WC history so far. Thus, it is a highly uneven contest but this edition of the World Cup has already given football fans some surprising results and, hence, the French line-up will not like to be complacent and aim to march ahead with a big win over Tunisia. France have already qualified for the Round of 16. Meanwhile, Tunisia needs to beat the defending champions to have any chance of further qualification. Even a draw will ensure France top their group and, hence, have the luxury of resting some of their key players. Asked if their star player Kylian Mbappe insisted on playing or accepts to be given a breather, Didier Deschamps -- the French manager -- said on the eve of the contest, "Physically he’s fine. Kylian doesn’t have a big ego. He’s important to us and makes a difference. But he’s always accepted what the team needs." France have comprehensively won both their games so far, beating Australia 4-1 and going past Denmark 2-1. Tunisia, on the other hand, held on to a 0-0 stalemate versus Denmark and lost to Australia by 0-1. Also read: Argentina vs Poland FIFA World Cup 2022 broadcast TV and OTT-live streaming: When and where to watch? Here's everything you need to know about the clash: When is France vs Tunisia match of the FIFA World Cup 2022? France versus Tunisia fixture, from Group D, will be held at the Education City Stadium. What time will the match be telecast in India? The face-off will get underway at 20:30 AM IST on Wednesday (November 30). Where can we watch the match live: Broadcast TV and OTT Channel in India? Indian football fans can watch the FIFA World Cup clashes on TV on Sports18 and Sports18 HD channels. The live streaming will be on Jio Cinema app or website.

France vs Tunisia FIFA World Cup 2022 broadcast TV and OTT-live streaming: When and where to watch?

Rows of sprawling cacti fill a valley in Zelfen district in Central Tunisia, where producers are hoping the spiky fruit can fuel a cosmetics cash-in, but can it bring wealth to the marginalised province of Kasserine? Let's find out in this next report.

World of Africa: Tunisia's blooming 'cacti cosmetic'

On Tuesday (November 22), a lot of action is packed for the football fans across the globe as the FIFA World Cup 2022 edition will see plenty of games, back-to-back. After Argentina taking on Saudi Arabia, Denmark will open their campaign as they face Tunisia in Group D fixture.

Group D is also a tricky one which comprises Denmark, Tunisia, defending champions France and Australia. While France is expected to top the group, the other remaining three are tricky oppositions as well. A star-studded Denmark side, including Manchester&nbsp;United’s Christian Eriksen, Tottenham Hotspur’s Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg and Joachim Andersen of Crystal Palace, will first hope to kick off their campaign in style with a win over Tunisia.&nbsp;

Tunisia, on the other hand, will hope for the likes of Youssef Msakni and former Sunderland winger Wahbi Khazri to deliver the goods versus the Danish line-up. Here's everything you need to know about the Denmark vs Tunisia clash:

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-broadcast-tv-and-ott-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-argentina-vs-saudi-arabia-536320">FIFA World Cup 2022 Broadcast TV and OTT-Live Streaming: When and where to watch Argentina vs Saudi Arabia?</a>

When is the Denmark vs Tunisia&nbsp;match of the FIFA World Cup 2022?

The&nbsp;Denmark vs Tunisia&nbsp;FIFA World Cup 2022 fixture, from Group D, will be held at&nbsp;the Education City Stadium in Al Rayyan.

<h2>What time will the match be telecast in India?</h2>

The match will commence&nbsp;at 18:30 PM IST on Tuesday evening (November 22).

<h2>Where can we watch the match live:&nbsp;Broadcast TV and OTT Channel in India?</h2>

In India, football fans can watch the&nbsp;FIFA World Cup matches on TV on&nbsp;Sports18&nbsp;and Sports18 HD channels. The live streaming will be provided on the&nbsp;Jio Cinema app&nbsp;or website.

On Tuesday (November 22), a lot of action is packed for the football fans across the globe as the FIFA World Cup 2022 edition will see plenty of games, back-to-back.

On Tuesday (November 22), a lot of action is packed for the football fans across the globe as the FIFA World Cup 2022 edition will see plenty of games, back-to-back. After Argentina taking on Saudi Arabia, Denmark will open their campaign as they face Tunisia in Group D fixture. Group D is also a tricky one which comprises Denmark, Tunisia, defending champions France and Australia. While France is expected to top the group, the other remaining three are tricky oppositions as well. A star-studded Denmark side, including Manchester United’s Christian Eriksen, Tottenham Hotspur’s Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg and Joachim Andersen of Crystal Palace, will first hope to kick off their campaign in style with a win over Tunisia. Tunisia, on the other hand, will hope for the likes of Youssef Msakni and former Sunderland winger Wahbi Khazri to deliver the goods versus the Danish line-up. Here's everything you need to know about the Denmark vs Tunisia clash: Also read: FIFA World Cup 2022 Broadcast TV and OTT-Live Streaming: When and where to watch Argentina vs Saudi Arabia? When is the Denmark vs Tunisia match of the FIFA World Cup 2022? The Denmark vs Tunisia FIFA World Cup 2022 fixture, from Group D, will be held at the Education City Stadium in Al Rayyan. What time will the match be telecast in India? The match will commence at 18:30 PM IST on Tuesday evening (November 22). Where can we watch the match live: Broadcast TV and OTT Channel in India? In India, football fans can watch the FIFA World Cup matches on TV on Sports18 and Sports18 HD channels. The live streaming will be provided on the Jio Cinema app or website.

FIFA World Cup 2022 Broadcast TV and OTT-Live Streaming: When and where to watch Denmark vs Tunisia?

Tunisian authorities are trying to repatriate a four-year-old girl who was forced by her parents to take a migrant boat alone to Italy.

The girl, Linda, landed on Lampedusa island on October 17 after undertaking a 26-hour journey over the Mediterranean Sea on a crowded wooden boat, which carried 70 other asylum seekers from Tunisia.

Tunisian MP Majdi Karbai said that the girl was doing fine and her parents were arrested and given a travel ban for abandoning a minor.

“Linda is doing well, and she is in a community centre for children in Palermo, after having been transferred from Lampedusa to a community in the province of Agrigento,” Karbai was quoted as saying by the Guardian newspaper.

&nbsp;“She’s constantly asking about her parents and when she will be able to see them again.”

According to reports, the girl’s parents were later released from jail after the news of the girl’s arrival. They might be charged with human trafficking.

&nbsp;“Her parents are in Tunisia and Tunisian authorities [on 26 October] imposed a travel ban on them. They would prefer to repatriate Linda, but the procedures are not so easy as the girl is under the legal protection of a local guardian,” he added.

Watch |&nbsp;At least 15 dead as two boats carrying 40 migrants sink in Greek waters

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However, a judge in Sicily has blocked the girl’s repatriation, asking the magistrate to prepare a report on the causes of the accident and Linda’s departure without her parents.

Linda was initially supposed to board the boat with her parents, but due to overcrowding, she was forced to go alone.

Her father is a street vendor and earns living by selling sandwiches in Sayada. Linda has a sister with a heart condition and is in need of medical assistance.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italian-pm-giorgia-meloni-appoints-minister-once-caught-wearing-nazi-armband-530465" hreflang="en">Italian PM appoints minister once caught wearing Nazi armband</a>

Due to the current political crisis and food scarcity, the parents decided to leave Tunisia hoping for a better living for their children in Europe. They had even prepared a dossier containing her clinical records.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-locks-down-area-around-foxconn-iphone-factory-days-after-workers-escape-530441" hreflang="en">China locks down area around iPhone factory, days after workers escape</a>

According to the Guardian, around 20,000 people have died or gone missing since 2014 in the central Mediterranean, the most unsafe passage to Europe and one of the deadliest borders in the world.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Tunisian authorities are trying to repatriate a four-year-old girl who was forced by her parents to take a migrant boat alone to Italy. The girl, Linda, landed on Lampedusa island on October 17 after undertaking a 26-hour journey over the Mediterranean Sea on a crowded wooden boat, which carried 70 other asylum seekers from Tunisia.

Tunisian authorities are trying to repatriate a four-year-old girl who was forced by her parents to take a migrant boat alone to Italy. The girl, Linda, landed on Lampedusa island on October 17 after undertaking a 26-hour journey over the Mediterranean Sea on a crowded wooden boat, which carried 70 other asylum seekers from Tunisia. Tunisian MP Majdi Karbai said that the girl was doing fine and her parents were arrested and given a travel ban for abandoning a minor. “Linda is doing well, and she is in a community centre for children in Palermo, after having been transferred from Lampedusa to a community in the province of Agrigento,” Karbai was quoted as saying by the Guardian newspaper. “She’s constantly asking about her parents and when she will be able to see them again.” According to reports, the girl’s parents were later released from jail after the news of the girl’s arrival. They might be charged with human trafficking. “Her parents are in Tunisia and Tunisian authorities [on 26 October] imposed a travel ban on them. They would prefer to repatriate Linda, but the procedures are not so easy as the girl is under the legal protection of a local guardian,” he added. Watch | At least 15 dead as two boats carrying 40 migrants sink in Greek waters However, a judge in Sicily has blocked the girl’s repatriation, asking the magistrate to prepare a report on the causes of the accident and Linda’s departure without her parents. Linda was initially supposed to board the boat with her parents, but due to overcrowding, she was forced to go alone. Her father is a street vendor and earns living by selling sandwiches in Sayada. Linda has a sister with a heart condition and is in need of medical assistance. Also read | Italian PM appoints minister once caught wearing Nazi armband Due to the current political crisis and food scarcity, the parents decided to leave Tunisia hoping for a better living for their children in Europe. They had even prepared a dossier containing her clinical records. Also read | China locks down area around iPhone factory, days after workers escape According to the Guardian, around 20,000 people have died or gone missing since 2014 in the central Mediterranean, the most unsafe passage to Europe and one of the deadliest borders in the world. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

4-year-old Tunisian girl crosses Mediterranean on boat without parents, lands in Italy

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